Queer Nature Walk with All Outdoors Collective - New Hampshire

October 25, 2026 — 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Last day to register: October 23, 2026

Come slowly walk in the woods with Jess and Larisa of All All Outdoors Collective! We will explore an old quarry site, take a look at any flora and fungi that pick our interest, and even pause to journal if it calls to us. We will bring some plant, bird, and mushroom ID books, but feel free to bring your own too!

This event is intended for the LGBTQIA+ community, and is open to all ages. We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is free to attend, with optional donations welcomed. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated on the hike.

Asexual/Aromantic Day Hike - Western Massachusetts

October 24, 2026 — 11:00 am - 3:30 pm ET
Rain Date: October 25, 2026
Last day to register: October 22, 2026

This hike is specifically for anyone on the Asexual and/or Aromantic spectrum(s)! Come enjoy the company of other A-spec folks! This beginner friendly, gently rolling hike through the woods offers wetland views, lunch by the lake and a good possibility of spotting wildlife. We walk to the pace of the slowest person and are happy to take breaks and stop to enjoy the natural world around us.

While there is very little elevation gain on this route, parts of this trail involve uneven ground and having to step over roots and rocks. There are wooden bridges and boards that maybe slippery when wet as well as sections that could be muddy. There are a few benches, spaced unevenly throughout the route, though a couple are not in good repair and should not be trusted!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Cemetery Picnic - Connecticut

Saturday, October 24, 2026 — 11:00 am - 1:30 pm ET
Last day to register: October 22, 2026

Join TVOP for a spooky autumn afternoon touring a queer historic house and exploring its old grounds, taking in the fall foliage and spotting local flora and fauna of the Connecticut River Valley. Then, finish the adventure with a cemetery picnic at the site’s colonial burial ground. Savor the final days of fall exploring local history with your queer community!

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Foliage Hike - Central Vermont

October 11, 2026— 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Last day to register: October 9, 2026

Come enjoy queer community while walking through this beautiful town forest. The trail gently ascends while winding through old granite rock piles (grout piles), passing unique stone sculptures and carvings, and culminating with some great views over forested, water filled granite quarries to the distant mountain ranges. Pockets of fall foliage should be present and the trail passes through beautiful stands of birch which retain their golden leaves a bit longer. Optional post hike hang out in the nearby town of Barre.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community.

Paddle and Picnic - Central Massachusetts

October 11, 2026 — 10:00 am - 12:00 am ET
Rain Date: October 25, 2026 Last day to register: October 9, 2026

This event is free to attend, with optional donations welcomed.

Join The Venture Out Project Central MA volunteers and Mass Audubon for a Paddle and Picnic in Worcester, MA! We will begin with a short introduction to canoeing, have an hour to enjoy the pond, and then will wrap up with a picnic on the sand! Feel free to bring a snack to share (or not share!). Please indicate if you have allergies that we should be aware of. If you attended (or missed attending) our canoeing trip last October, we will be returning to the same pond.

If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and safe on the water. This event is for ages 18+ and intended for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Mushroom Marvels and Fall Foliage - Connecticut

Saturday, October 10, 2026 — 11:00 am - 1:30 pm ET
Rain Date: October 17, 2026
Last day to register: October 8, 2026

Join TVOP volunteers Mack and Andy for an afternoon of fall foliage and mushroom marvels in North Stonington, CT. Hike a local trail, admire beautiful vistas, and take in autumn! This hike is approximately 1.5 miles in length, and rises an impressive 300ft. to the summit giving way to sprawling views to the north, east, and south. Along the way, we will pause to take in the beauty of the changing leaves above and mushrooms sprouting below our feet.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Mushroom ID Walk - Western Massachusetts

October 3, 2026 — 2:00 - 4:00 pm ET
Last day to register: October 1, 2026

Join The Venture Out Project for a beginner-friendly mushroom identification walk! Co-led by TVOP volunteer Beck and Jess Benson Evans, president of the Pioneer Valley Mycological Association, this guided walk will introduce participants to the incredible diversity of fungi found in western Massachusetts. Together we'll learn the basics of mushroom identification, explore the ecological roles fungi play in forest ecosystems, and practice observing the key features that help distinguish different species. No prior knowledge is necessary—just curiosity and a willingness to slow down and look closely.

This educational walk is designed for all experience levels and is not a foraging event. We'll walk at a relaxed pace over uneven terrain up to one mile (potentially off-trail) while enjoying the opportunity to connect with nature and LGBTQIA+ community. Please wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. Feel free to bring a hand lens, notebook, or camera if you'd like to take a closer look at the fungi we encounter. We look forward to exploring the woods with you!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Rainbow Row - Connecticut

Saturday, September 12 2026 — 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm ET
Last day to register: September 10, 2026

First Connecticut TVOP Event! Join volunteers Andy and Mack for an evening of recreational rowing in Mystic, CT! We will be rowing in 6 person boats on a calm river for approximately an hour at a speed of 2 mi/hour (breaks from rowing during the event are welcome and encouraged). Whether you are an experienced rower, or are looking to get out on the water for the first time, this group row is for you! There will also be an optional post-row hangout at a local outdoor eatery.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.
If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Pollinator Promenade - Western Massachusetts

September 12, 2026 — 11:00 am - 12:30 pm ET
Rain Date: September 13, 2026
Last day to register: September 10, 2026

Bees please! What better way to spend a late summer day than walking through a lush meadows and gardens, resplendent with goldenrod and other flowers, looking for pollinators? Join us on a beginner friendly walk to learn about these fascinating insects with guest expert Aliza Fassler! We will happily walk to the pace of the slowest person and stop frequently to look for our helpful insect friends. Aliza will show us the proper technique to net and examine the pollinators and then we’ll let them go to get on with their important work.

Though nobody will be required to handle any insect, potential participants should be aware that we will be actively seeking out insects, including bees. People with allergies to bee or other insect stings may wish to choose a different event. We will be passing by tall grass and brush which could hide ticks. Our 1.3 mile route will take us on mown grassy paths, on uneven ground, which could slippery in the rain and also on gravel roads. There are no benches available on the route, though people are welcome to bring folding stools if they wish. Masks (KN95 or better) are required. Registration is limited to 14. More detailed information on our meeting location will be shared with registered participants prior to the event.

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

About our expert:

Aliza is a PhD candidate in the Department of Environmental Conservation at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass). She is broadly interested in applied science that explores human relationships with forest insects, finds mutual management strategies that integrate human resource needs with wildlife habitats, and helps build human-nature connections. Her PhD research focuses on habitat restoration, management, and conservation for wild bees (and some wasps), and on improving pollinator habitats as part of sustainable logging practices. Aliza grew up in Greenfield, Massachusetts, where she developed her love for forests. She began her research in forests as an undergraduate at Smith College, studying the effects of an invasive insect pest (hemlock woolly adelgid) on fungal communities in the hemlock forests she grew up in. Since then, she has studied everything from gopher tortoises to midges.

Beyond her research, she serves as co-chair of the UMass Bee Campus USA Committee, and a Renaissance of the Earth Fellow, working to improve pollinator habitats on campus, engage the broader UMass community in pollinator stewardship, and exploring our relationships with insects across time. She cares about good science communication aiming to engage people with insect conservation and translate research into accessible management guidelines for federal, state, and private landowners. She is also passionate about making science welcoming and accessible to all through mentoring, outreach, and teaching. In her free time, you will find her restoring a family apple orchard with her partner, reading sci-fi/fantasy novels with her cat, Squirrel, and hiking with her dog, Penny.

Queer Picnic Social - Eastern Massachusetts

September 10, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: September 8, 2026

Come join a casual & queer picnic on the Esplanade. We will provide some snacks and extra water. We will provide a few picnic blankets, but if you'd like seating feel free to bring a chair or anything you'd like to feel comfortable. You can stay for as little or as long as you'd like, the coordinators will be leaving just after sunset.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them.

Thursday Night Hike 9/3 - Ashfield, Western Massachusetts

September 3, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: September 1, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

Our final Thursday Night Hike of the season is a short hike, but we’ll be stopping a lot because it is absolutely gorgeous. We’ll climb a steep rock staircase up a cliff to a dramatic, expansive granite ledge overlooking the Berkshire foothills. After our descent, we’ll explore a wooded trail and relax by a series of bucolic waterfalls. The ledge trail has areas of steep elevation with sheer drops from the cliffs. The waterfall trail is wide and gentle, with some slippery sections near the falls. 1.8 miles, 300 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 8/27 - Northampton, Western Massachusetts

August 27, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: August 25, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a beginner-friendly hike through a beloved conservation area. The trail winds through the woods, past swamp forests, and ends up with a beautiful lake view. This is a great spot for mushrooms! Trails are mostly wide and level, with shorter sections that are more hilly or wet, with low boardwalks. Bring your insect repellant of choice, as this trail can be buggy! 2.8 miles, 150 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 8/20 - Hadley, Western Massachusetts

August 20, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: August 18, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a beginner-friendly hike through a peaceful conservation area. We’ll keep an eye out for dramatic boulders, red efts on the trail, and will take in the view of Mt. Sugarloaf and Mt. Toby from an expansive meadow. Trails have gentle slopes and may have exposed rocks and roots. 2.5 miles, 200 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

TVOP Pride Park Hangout

August 13, 2026 — 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm ET
Last day to register: August 11, 2026

Come join TVOP Boston for a casual & queer picnic on the Esplanade! We will provide some snacks and extra water. We will provide a few picnic blankets, but if you'd like seating feel free to bring a chair or anything you'd like to feel comfortable. Stay for as little or as long as you'd like, the coordinators will be leaving just after sunset.

Thursday Night Hike 8/13 - Greenfield, Western Massachusetts

August 13, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: August 11, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a short, beginner-friendly hike with multiple dramatic views along a trap rock ridge. Trails are winding with some steep descents, have exposed rocks and roots, and may be slippery. The ridge trail has steep drop-offs. 2.0 miles, 200 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 8/6- Amherst, Western Massachusetts

August 6, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: August 4, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a beginner-friendly walk through a beautiful conservation area that follows a babbling brook. Expect to see cool abandoned cars, dogs everywhere, and a rainbow of mushrooms if we're lucky! Trails are mostly wide but may have exposed rocks, roots, and mud. 2.8 miles, 150 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 7/30 - Easthampton, Western Massachusetts

July 30, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: July 28, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a chill 2.3 mile walk in the woods at a wildlife sanctuary. Depending on the weather, it may be wet and will probably be buggy. Trails are mostly wide but may have exposed rocks, roots, and mud. There is an optional climb up an observation tower overlooking the Mill River. Total elevation gain is about 100 feet. This one is great for birding!

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Waterfall/River Ramble - Vermont

July 26, 2026 — 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm ET
Last day to register: July 24, 2026

Come enjoy a lovely shady ramble along a well constructed, fairly flat trail that winds for nearly a mile beside a river with many scenic overlooks, benches for quiet observation, and stone staircases down to the river. Depending on the interest of the group, we'll either do a shorter walk out and back on the well graded, lightly graveled universally accessible portion of the trail or continue on to explore the natural surface portion of this trail. Total distance hiked will not be more than 1.8 miles. We will hike at the speed of the slowest hiker and will plan to spend time sitting near the river and exploring the side staircases. Come commune with nature and new queer friends.

​We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. This event is intended for the LGBTQ+ community.

Thursday Night Hike 7/23 - South Deerfield, Western Massachusetts

July 23, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: July 21, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike has beautiful, postcard-worthy views of the valley and Connecticut River. Some sections have steep stairs to climb but we’ll have time to take it slow. The route winds through the woods but sometimes crosses over roads and parking lots. Trails have exposed rocks and roots. 2.13 miles, 450 ft elevation gain.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 7/16 - Shutesbury, Western Massachusetts

July 16, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 30, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is at a beautiful sanctuary with unique sculptures, extensive boardwalks through bogs and wetlands, sweeping views, and a magical doorway. Trails are narrow in places, with exposed rocks, roots, and mud. There is one steep section with a stone staircase and slippery, loose footing. We'll cover 2.8 miles, with 200 ft elevation change.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 7/9 - Leeds, Western Massachusetts

July 7, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: July 7, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a relaxing 3.2 mile walk in the woods along rolling hills, lovely streams, and mossy boulders, with a scenic overlook to the west. The inclines are mostly gentle with one steeper, rockier section near the overlook,

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 7/2 - Hadley, Western Massachusetts

July 2, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 30, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a steep, steady hike up a wooded mountainside with a gorgeous, panoramic view of the Connecticut River Valley from the porch of a historic Summit House. This is one of our more strenuous hikes, with very steep uphill and downhill sections and rocky, rooted terrain. We'll cover 2.5 miles, with 700 ft elevation gain.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Gay Worcester Walking Tour - Central Massachusetts

June 28, 2026 — 10:00 am - 11:30 am ET
Rain Date: June 29, 2026 Last day to register: June 26, 2026

This event is free to attend, with optional donations welcomed.

When Main Street Was Gay: A Walking Tour
Join The Venture Out Project for an urban adventure! A local historian who worked on the Worcester LGBTQ+ History Project for a walking tour of the gay side of downtown Worcester. We will follow the paths of early bar hoppers, community builders, cruisers, and Pride marchers as they navigated the blocks around Worcester’s Main Street in pursuit of community and rights between 1950s and 1990s.

After the walking tour, we can continue the fun at a local bakery to nosh and nerd out over Worcester's queer history.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 6/25 - Haydenville, Western Massachusetts

June 25, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 23. 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck!

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a beginner-friendly 2.8 mile hike along gently rolling trails with an amazing view of the Connecticut River Valley ...and mysterious circles! Trails may have exposed rocks, roots, and mud.

Hikes this Summer:

Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 6/18 - Northampton, Western Massachusetts

June 18, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 16, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a beginner-friendly 2.7 mile hike to a dramatic abandoned quarry with great views. This hike features mostly wide trails with gentle inclines, but there is some uneven footing on rocks, roots, and mud at the beginning. The quarry trail is narrow with steep drop offs. It can get a little buggy, so bring your repellent of choice!

Hikes this Summer:

Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Critter Walk - Western Massachusetts

June 13, 2026 — 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm ET
Rain Date: June 14, 2026
Last day to register: June 11, 2026

Are frog and toad your friends? Do you want to look under logs to see if the salamanders are home? Do you wonder about the lives of the red efts you see while hiking? Would you help a turtle cross the road? Is your response to snakes more, “Neat!” Than, “Eek!”? If you find reptiles and amphibians fascinating, come herping with us! It’s like birding, but for our crawling friends! Join volunteer Amy as guest expert Rachel Keeffe, PhD helps us find these wonderful animals and teaches us about their lives!

This event will be slow paced with frequent stops to look for, watch or examine the reptiles and amphibians we find. While we may walk up to 1.75 miles we will prioritize finding creatures over reaching a certain destination. We always walk to the pace for the slowest person. All experience levels are welcome but if you have an allergy or phobias to any of these animals it may be best to pick a different event. We will be walking on forest paths that may require stepping over rocks and roots. There are no bathrooms at this trailhead.

About our expert: Dr. Rachel Keeffe’s lifelong love of reptiles and amphibians inspired her to explore biology research opportunities during her undergraduate studies at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. These research experiences ignited her desire to pursue a PhD in Zoology at the University of Florida, where she studied the evolutionary morphology and biomechanics of frogs. Dr. Keeffe continued her academic training as a postdoctoral research fellow at Mount Holyoke College, where she studied patterns of coevolution in snake genitalia. Throughout her career, Dr. Keeffe has developed a teaching style focused on hands-on learning experiences, collaborative learning environments, and using art as a means to understand scientific concepts.

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Thursday Night Hike 6/11- Pelham, Western Massachusetts

June 11, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 9, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck.

This week’s Thursday Night Hike is a short 2 mile hike along a gentle trail through a wooded conservation area, with babbling brooks and small waterfalls galore. The trail is fairly wide and flat, with one steeper section, and may have exposed rocks, roots, and mud.

Hikes this Summer:
Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Pride Paddle & Pull - Massachusetts

June 6, 2026 — 2:00 - 5:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 4, 2026

Paddle with a purpose AND celebrate pride month together — help the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) and the Friends of Lake Warner remove the invasive water chestnut from our waterways! For this free, 3-hour group paddle event we will be removing this plant together while enjoying each other's company on beautiful Lake Warner. Afterwards, join us for pizza, cider, and connections at Carr’s Cider House from 5:30-7pm!

Water chestnut is a harmful aquatic invasive species, which is known to take over stretches of water. When left unchecked, water chestnut has the potential to decimate ecosystems and eliminate recreational opportunities. Fortunately, it is easily identifiable, and smaller infestations can be managed with trained volunteers hand-pulling the plant. The key to keeping water chestnut from invading new areas is to remove plants before they have a chance to set seed.

This event is a collaboration between Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC), Friends of Lake Warner, Pride Day on the River, and The Venture Out Project. CRC will provide a guided interactive program for participants to learn more about aquatic invasive species, the local watershed and safe paddling instruction for all experience levels. This is a fun, satisfying activity — combining paddling, teamwork, enjoying beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Each participant is required to register and consent to CRC’s liability waiver using the register button.

Bring your own canoe or kayak and personal flotation device (PFD), if you have one. If not, we have a limited number of foldable kayaks and canoe spots with paddles, and PFD's available to borrow on a first come first served basis. Please note that the max paddler height for the kayaks is 6'2" and the max paddler weight is 250 lbs.

We will launch from an access point at Lake Warner in Hadley, MA and there will be a mixture of paddling for short stretches and floating while pulling water chestnut. Instructions on invasive plant removal will be provided. There are also on-land support roles available for those who do not wish to paddle or be in a boat. Event pre-registration is required.

After the pull event, join us for cider and pizza at Carr’s Cider House.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please email kbeerman@ctriver.org or call 802-318-1390.

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.

Pride Ride! - Massachusetts

June 6, 2026 — 11:00 - 1:00 pm ET

​This ride is completely FREE!!! Any donations you choose to make will be split between All Bodies on Bikes, The Venture Out Project, and Translate Gender. These donations will go towards queer and trans empowerment and outdoor joy. Thank you for your support :)

​We will meet at Millside Park in Easthampton at 11 AM.  We'll ride 5 paved miles through Easthampton, ringing our bells and waving our pride flags!  We'll end the ride at Mt. Tom's Homemade Ice Cream for some treats :)

​Everyone is welcome to join us- riders on adaptive cycles, tricycles, e-bikes, families, cargo bikes, and more! This ride was designed with you in mind! We welcome riders of all genders, races, sexual orientations. This ride is a celebration of queer and deviant bodies taking up space and finding JOYFUL movement together <3

​This ride is open to anyone!  Bring yourself, your family, your friends.  If you are bringing small children, we ask that they tag along in a child seat or trailer if they aren't able to handle the distance by themselves.

Thursday Night Hike 6/4- Sunderland, Western Massachusetts

June 4, 2026 — 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: June 2, 2026

Thursday Night Hikes are back! Please join us this summer for some of our favorite hikes in Western Massachusetts, led by Volunteers Amy, Sam, and Beck!

Our first Thursday Night Hike of the 2026 season is a chill 3 mile walk along a pond to a beautiful waterfall and unique geologic formations. We will traverse mostly wide trails with one steep and scrambly section over rocks by the waterfall. The trail is more narrow and winding at the beginning, with exposed roots and rocks.

Hikes this Summer:

Sunderland, MA — June 4

Pelham, MA - June 11

Northampton, MA - June 18

Haydenville, MA - June 25

Hadley, MA - July 2

Leeds, MA - July 9

Shutesbury, MA - July 16

South Deerfield, MA - July 23

Easthampton, MA - July 30

Amherst, MA - August 6

Greenfield, MA - August 13

Hadley, MA - August 20

Northampton, MA - August 27

Ashfield, MA - September 3

About Thursday Night Hikes:

Thursday Night Hikes are all about finding community and relaxing in nature with other queer folks! They are a low-stakes, low-stress way to meet new people while enjoying summer outside. We hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we don’t leave anyone behind. 

Hikes range from 1.5 to 3 miles and are generally within a 30- to 40-minute radius of the Northampton/Amherst area. All hikes start at 5:30pm and may go as late as 8:00pm. Hikes generally run rain or shine, but we will cancel for heavy rain, thunderstorms, or extreme heat.

Hikes in this series will be posted on a monthly basis. Please note that space is limited (generally 8-14 people), and registration is required for each hike. Please cancel your registration if you realize you can’t go so that other people can attend!

Want to be the first to know when new events are posted in this area? Sign up for our mailing list at bit.ly/tvop-rivervalleyMA-VT

We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.